Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning

Pathway to Social Science

“Yes, this course has definitely encouraged me to study towards a qualification. The feeling of getting education is priceless. It makes me feel like I’m coming out of the darkness – and walking into light.

You will study part-time for one year on the pathways and successful students will then transfer onto their degree at Cardiff School of Social Sciences. Our current Pathway to Social Science students are in the best place to inspire you to enrol! Read the testimonials provided by students just finishing this year’s pathway.

“It is flexible and supportive. It is perfect for mature students with a family who want to enter Higher Education” – Som Sunvwar

“I felt like I needed to do something for myself and I have always wanted to work towards a degree. Just go for it! I totally surprised myself at how much I could do despite not studying for many years” – Deborah Johnson

“Cardiff University has been a great place to study. There have been levels of support in place and being a working mum tutors have been very supportive, approachable and appreciative of our busy lives” – Wendy Harris

“I couldn’t believe you didn’t need any qualifications to do it! It has been brilliant! I have made lots of new friends and the subjects have been very interesting” - Alysha Sammut

“The pathway could change your view on Higher Education and it could provide you with a good career opportunity” - Vikki Richards

Introduction to Social Science will focus your studies on contemporary society. We will look at the Media and how they impact on different groups in society; the changing cultures within our society; the participation and relationship society has to politics. Study skills will be a particular focus this term so that you are confident and ready to move on to the next course on your Pathway.

This module on the Pathway to Social Science will introduce issues of Social Policy. You will gain an understanding of important social policies which set up the Welfare State; and look at current policies which affect a range of topics including Health, Education, and Housing.

This module will introduce you to the role of education in modern society. You will consider the structure and organisation of education and be presented with a selection and summary of key policy changes and their impacts. The emphasis will be on developing your own understanding and critical analysis of the relationship between education and society and in this way, the module will provide a foundation for further studies on your Pathway.